Regardless of whether you know what an ollie is or have battle scars from attempted tre-flips, join other skaters in celebrating the second anniversary of this national holiday. You don't need money, just grab your board, helmet, elbow and knee pads. Skateboarders around the globe will be trying new tricks, shopping for discounted merchandise, and protesting on behalf of the sport while you fall, drink some free soda, and then do it all over again in Mt. Pleasant. Skaters younger than 9 must be accompanied by an adult at least 17 years of age. For one afternoon, at least, it's all about the board.WEDNESDAY

Forty percent of the African slaves who were brought to America passed through the Port of Charleston, bringing their cultural traditions of language, dance, food, and art with them as they settled on the city's surrounding islands. For five days, the Gullah community of James Island strives to share the multiple facets of its heritage amid the beauty of the Spanish moss-draped oaks that define the area's landscape. Festivities include an opening ceremony at McLeod Plantation with an African dance and drum ceremony, along with food and tours of the six slave cabins. Other events include a "conversation with the elders" Friday evening at James Island Presbyterian Church and the world premiere of the play Gullah Gone Da Heaven at Burke High School.THURSDAY

After he didn't make it into the White House, Al Gore turned his attention to the environment ... and movies. He takes center stage in An Inconvenient Truth, the new documentary emphasizing the legitimacy of global warming and the threat it poses. Critics at the Sundance Film Festival praised the film, which follows Gore on his crusade to discern fact from fiction amid the debate about whether or not the humans are heating up the planet. Along with the film, get the input of Dr. Heidi Cullen, climate expert with The Weather Channel. She will field questions during a Q&A and catered reception after the film, which is sponsored by ChasDoc and the Coastal Conservation League. Please RSVP if you'd like to attetnd, and if the movie's predictions are too apocalyptic, you can always drown your sorrows at the post-show cash bar.THURSDAY

It is possible to find a wallaby, baboon, and goat in Charleston, and it only takes a trip to the Charleston Museum to pet these furry friends. As part of its education and entertainment program, the museum will transform itself — literally — into a petting zoo. Eudora Farms Animals From Around the World will be there, as well as exotic birds and camels, for viewing or riding, respectively. Families can enjoy country fare, face painting, pie-eating contests, and crafts, all while learning at America's first museum.SATURDAY

So you think your grill skills can compete with the greats? This two-day extravaganza of food and bluegrass has divisions for amateurs as well as tailgaters, who can fire up next to the professional barbecue teams who will journey to this historic plantation for a heated competition. More than $10,000 in cash and prizes will go the winners. Kids can bounce in jump castles and ride ponies, so between activity and munching options, no one cares if you can only blacken a burger. Download a contest application at Boone Hall's website or pick one up from Lowe's in Mt. Pleasant.FRI-SAT

Seven cards, no limit, and a crown to be had means fun for the whole family. Well, not the whole family, but definitely the over-21 gamblers of the bunch. WTMA Talk Radio 1250 sponsors this Texas Hold 'Em tournament, which benefits the cancer-fighting ASCEND Foundation and serves to raise awareness about S.C. gambling laws. Registration starts at 7 p.m., and food will be available for purchase. Watch out for the queen of diamonds. We hear she'll hurt you if she's able.SATURDAY

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CONCERT MUSIC — By George, that's good music!Charleston Chamber Players
Tues. June 27
7:30 p.m.
$18
Old Exchange Building
122 East Bay St.
727-2165

If only George Washington were here this time around. The Old Exchange 2006 Classical Concert Series presents the Charleston Chamber Players, featuring musicians from the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, who will dress in 18th-century attire and play Beethoven, Mozart, and Kramar-Krommer. The candlelit performance commemorates an evening in 1791 when President Washington visited the Great Hall. The wine and cheese reception opens at 6:30 p.m., and the word on the cobblestone is that the 100 seats could sell out, so call ahead for tickets.TUESDAY